Readers Digest
Magazine subscription Podcast
HomeMoneyProperty

Common mistakes that could devalue your home

BY READERS DIGEST

24th May 2021 Property

Common mistakes that could devalue your home
Are considering selling your home soon, or simply want to make some upgrades?  These common mistakes could knock thousands off your property's value.

1. Poor DIY work 

Many people can be tempted to try their hand at doing major home improvements themselves in hopes of saving some money and perhaps learning a new skill. Yet, this can be a very bad idea and ultimately end up costing you more in the long run.
Kev Tilley from online mortgage advice website Mortgageable.co.uk explained: “Typically there is a stark contrast between the finish of a DIY and professional job and estate agents will take note of the details”.
“You may think that your DIY paint job looks great, but compared to a professional finish it’s likely to look amateurish”.
Even more important is safety, so although you may think you are talented at interior design, you should certainly reserve any gas or electrical work for the professionals.

2. A weary kitchen 

GettyImages-1299487644
The kitchen is the heart of the home and where buyers are concerned - the crown jewels of their dream home.
If your kitchen looks a little worse for wear, the best case scenario is that it leaves a bad impression, yet if it looks like it needs to be torn out and completely replaced, you may be asked to reduce your asking price to cover the costs of the upgrade.
You don’t have to spend thousands on a new kitchen, there are plenty of cheap and effective ways to give your kitchen a facelift on a budget.
Some quick and easy hacks include replacing the cabinet doors, rather than the full kitchen. Replacing the worktop, taps and the splashback are also all great ways to give your kitchen an instant upgrade.

3. No bath 

In recent years there’s been a trend for wet rooms and shower-only bathrooms and as a result many homeowners have opted to remove their baths completely. While you may like this new look, many prospective buyers may be put off your property as a result.
If you have multiple bathrooms, then you have the freedom to have a walk-in shower room as well as a traditional bathroom. But, if you only have one bathroom, it’s probably a wise idea to install a shower over the bath.
Why? The reality is that many people like to have a soak in the bath and not having one in your home can be seen as a major disadvantage.

4. Striking decor 

GettyImages-1645859529
Although we all like to personalise our home's decor, the reality is that neutral and subtle decor is going to be more appealing to prospective buyers.
People like to imagine themselves living in the properties they consider buying and usually that’s easier if they don’t have to think about removing garish wallpaper or vibrant carpets.
If you do prefer to add a unique flare to your interior decor, you should try to tone it down prior to putting your house on the market.

5. Opting for the wrong heating system 

If you upgrade your heating system make sure it’s the correct size and appropriate for your home. For example, if you choose the wrong size boiler it could end up adding thousands to the heating bill and if it’s too small, may not adequately heat the home and lead to poor water flow.
As EnergyGuide.org.uk highlights, overlooking your home's overall efficiency may be a mistake if you are considering a greener form of home heating. For example, if you opt for a heat pump but you use regular radiators and your home is  poorly insulated, the house may be difficult to keep warm.
Therefore, if you are considering a heating upgrade, make sure to get a recommendation based on your homes specific needs. Any reputable plumber will be more than happy to do this.

6. Dark rooms 

GettyImages-1185197503
Well lit rooms with natural light flooding through them always look more appealing. Yet, if you live in a property with restricted light, this may not be possible.
You can easily improve things by painting the walls brightly with shades of white or cream and by utilising lots of artificial lighting. Hanging up some mirrors can also be helpful in maximising limited light that does make it into the room.
 Keep up with the top stories from Reader’s Digest by subscribing to our weekly newsletter.
 

This post contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you. Read our disclaimer

Loading up next...
Stories by email|Subscription
Readers Digest

Launched in 1922, Reader's Digest has built 100 years of trust with a loyal audience and has become the largest circulating magazine in the world

Readers Digest
Reader’s Digest is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry). We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards, please contact 0203 289 0940. If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit ipso.co.uk